Shaping Public Policy Chapter 12 Section 2

Section 2 Tools for Shaping Policy As the Supreme Court decides cases, it determines policy in three ways: judicial review interpretation of laws overruling or revising its previous decisions Judicial review—the Supreme Court’s power to examine the laws and actions of local, state, and national governments and to cancel them if they violate the Constitution.

Section 2 Tools for Shaping Policy (cont.) Under the principle of stare decisis, once the Court rules on a case, its decision serves as a precedent, or model, on which to base other decisions in similar cases.

Section 2 Limits on the Supreme Court The Court’s activities are limited by: restrictions on the types of issues and kinds of cases the Court will hear; limited control over its own agenda; lack of enforcement power; and the system of checks and balances.

Section 2 Limits on the Supreme Court (cont.) The Court will hear only cases that meet certain criteria. -If different decisions have been made by the lower courts. -If lower court conflicts with previous Supreme Court decision. -If the issue is significant beyond the two parties involved in the case.

Section 2 Limits on the Supreme Court (cont.) The Supreme Court has limited ability to enforce its rulings. The Constitution provides that the legislative and executive branches of the national government have several ways to influence or check the Supreme Court’s power.